There is substantial testing required before a person can donate an organ. Psychological testing is performed to insure that a potential donor is able to understand the decision to donate, the risks of donation and the process of donation. Extensive medical testing is done to protect both the donor and the recipient. For the donor, it is essential that testing shows that they are healthy and that they will not be harmed by the donation. For the recipient, it is necessary to determine that the organ will be a good match and not be rejected, and that the donor does not have any diseases that could be transmitted to the recipient, including hepatitis, HIV or cancer.
Blood will be drawn for several tests. A standard blood typing test will be performed as well as tissue typing, crossmatching and screening for antibodies. These tests are used to see if the donor is compatible with the recipient, or if there is a high likelihood of organ rejection.
Standard x-rays will be done to check for any heart and lung problems. Urine samples will be analyzed for organ function in the case of kidney donors. Female donors will have a complete gynecological exam and potentially a mammogram. Additional organ specific tests may be ordered as the transplant surgeon deems necessary.
